The transition from preschool to primary school can be an exciting experience for many children, but with the right support from you as a parent, it will be much less daunting. In this blog, you'll learn how you as a parent can prepare your child for primary school and make the transition as smooth as possible.
When do children in the Netherlands start primary school?
In the Netherlands, children usually start primary school at the age of 4. This means that most children begin in group 1 of primary school in the month they turn 4. Of course, this may vary depending on the school and region, but generally, children start at the age of 4. Before that, many children attend preschool or daycare.
The transition from preschool to primary school: how it feels for your child
The transition from preschool to primary school is a big step for little ones. That's often why the first day of school is so exciting (and secretly nerve-wracking) for children and parents alike. Saying goodbye on that first day of school can be emotional for many, but not every child experiences this. Emotionally, saying goodbye to parents can be difficult for some children, while others may be very excited to make new friends. So, don't worry, it varies from child to child and family to family.
The various challenges children face when starting primary school
When children start primary school for the first time, there are many challenges they need to adjust to. A new environment, new routines, and new adults and children around them. Your little one needs to learn how to interact with other children, how to play together, and how to resolve conflicts when they arise.
In addition to the emotional changes and development your child will experience at primary school, they'll also learn new academic skills. This starts with learning the alphabet, numbers, and new colors and shapes in a playful way. This can also be challenging for some children, but luckily, the early years of primary school are designed to teach these skills in a fun and playful manner.
How parents can make the transition to primary school easier for their child
As a parent, you want to support your child as best as you can. That's why we have a few tips and strategies to make the transition from preschool to primary school easier:
- Talk to your child about what to expect: Explain to your little one what they can expect when they go to primary school. Discuss the new daily schedule, the activities they'll do at school, and the people they'll interact with.
- Visit the school together: If possible, visit the school before the first day. This helps reduce any anxiety and helps your child become familiar with the new environment.
- Make it a positive experience: Who said going to school had to be a negative experience? Make it a positive one! Talk about how much fun you had at school and how many new friends you made. Also, encourage your child and reassure them that trying new things is okay.
- Help with preparation: A good start is half the battle. Therefore, prepare the lunchbox together and add some extra treats on the first day.
- Stay involved: Even after the first day, it's important to stay involved in your child's school experience. Ask how they're doing and communicate with the teacher. If something isn't going well, you'll have the opportunity to intervene early.
